The Bangor-born presenter will front popular show, Blue Peter, for her final time after three-and-a-half years at the helm.

Speaking to the News Letter last month, Zoe said she expected it to be an emotional experience as she bows out this evening.

The former Miss Northern Ireland is moving to pastures new and will present her own children's quiz show, Hot Rods.

"I'm sure I will well up," she said.

"I have nothing but happy memories.

"Blue Peter allowed me to be the sort of all-action girl that I never thought I was.

"I remember being young and not going on rides at the funfair because I was afraid, now I'm doing things like jumping out of planes."

The 28-year-old became a household name for her exploits on the show including racing a formula one car, walking on fire, barefoot water-sking, paragliding and trekking to the top of the UK's highest peaks.

Ms Salmon was also involved in controversy when she chose the Red Hand of Ulster as a 'best of British' logo to adorn a British Airways aeroplane, sparking a sectarian row.